What Spanish term usually names the girls in a quinceañera’s court?

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The girls in a quinceañera’s court are commonly called damas.

Damas is the Spanish plural of dama, meaning “ladies.” In a traditional formal court, the damas are friends or relatives who accompany the celebrant during the ceremony and reception. They may wear coordinated dresses and participate in a rehearsed presentation or dance.

The court’s exact composition is not fixed. Some celebrations include both damas and male attendants, while others use only a few close friends or omit a court altogether. Clothing, choreography, and titles can also differ according to local custom.

The word dama should not be confused with madrina. A madrina is generally a sponsor or an adult helper who contributes money, services, or a specific ceremonial item. The court members are peers or young attendants, whereas madrinas and padrinos are usually sponsors or supporters.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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